Extraction Site Homecare Instructions

It is important to take care of the surgical site, please follow these instructions:

1. Bite on gauze for 30 minutes: (one half hour) to stop bleeding. If bleeding continues, place gauze and continue to apply pressure. It is normal for the saliva to be slightly streaked with blood for about one day. If abnormal bleeding occurs, place a piece of moist cotton or gauze over extraction site and bite down for 15 minutes.  We also recommend the use of a moist tea bag on the extraction site; bite down on it with light pressure.

2. For at least 24 hours DO NOT:

• Smoke
• Drink through a straw
• Drink Alcohol or carbonated beverages (soda), or hot liquids
• Blow your nose
• Spit excessively
• Put finger or tongue near socket where tooth was removed
Any of these things may cause the blood clot over the surgery site to dislodge from the “socket” causing a “dry socket” and result in unnecessary pain. (should this happen, call this office to see the doctor as soon as possible.)

3. If your pain, discomfort, or bleeding continues to worsen, call the office for a  re-examination.

4. DO Maintain a soft diet for the remainder of the day.  Such as: warm soup, ice cream, yogurt, meal replacement shakes (no straws).

5. If you were given medications, take them according to the instructions. If you have pain medications at home, you may take them according to the instructions.

6. Swelling is normal after teeth have been extracted and should not cause alarm. If swelling occurs place cold towels or an ice bag to your face for the first 4 hours.  Alternate: 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off.

7.Tomorrow morning, start rinsing gently with warm salt water: (1/4 teaspoonof salt to 1 cup of water) every four (4) hours for two (2) days.

8. If any problems or questions arise, please feel free to call the office at 322-2061  or Dr. Jason Sala at 787-2922, or Dr. Todd Sala at 787-0422.